Austria: Interreligious Peace Service Celebrating Christmas

On December 17, 2017, the Interreligious Service started with beautiful Christmas songs by the Vienna Peace Choir.

The first speech was given by Elisabeth Cook on the topic of “The Light”, referring to the choir’s last song “You are the Light”. The second speaker was Peter Haider, recalling what connects him to Christmas. One memory of him was a peace conference in Israel in 2003, when he first could visit the places where Jesus used to live and preach.

Next, Albert Heitzinger spoke about the birth of Jesus -circumstances which were not favourable for a baby to be born.

Finally, Pastor Arthur Nzekwu from the Celestial Church of Christ spoke about us being the light of the world and children of God, and as such we have to pass on God’s love.

After more songs of praise by the choir, UPF president Peter Haider handed over Ambassador of Peace Awards to pastor Arthur Nzekwu and to elder Clement Olowoyo, also from the celestial church of Christ. His daughter took the award on his behalf.

After the Service guests and members had time to share over a beautiful lunch.